The Herron Chronicles #2

Here is the second installation of our articles written by Mr. Herron:

The Role of the Mind and the Will

Last time, I mentioned that it is necessary to possess commitment and determination in order to achieve any significant weight loss or physical fitness goals. You're embarking on some permanent lifestyle changes -- changes in the kinds of choices you make. It is this commitment to lifestyle change that keeps the weight off! Without this kind of commitment, there are two things that will interfere with progress -- distraction and rationalization. You must conquer these tendencies. And, you will build character through discipline, as well as lose weight, feel better, and become more physically fit and healthy. Remember, if it was easy, there would be no weight loss or fitness problems for anyone.

Distraction

Distraction is anything which which divides the attention or prevents concentration and focus. You must become focused. Examples of distraction include "I'm too busy"... "I don't have time"... or "I'll get around to it later." Getting rid of distraction is part of lifestyle change.

Rationalization

Rationalization is the tendency to make explanations which are essentially excuses. Examples include "One doughnut won't hurt me"... "It's only a hundred calories"... or "I'll eat less tomorrow." Rationalizations are polite ways of making excuses for doing something that probably shouldn't be done. Another part of lifestyle change.

Successful weight loss and becoming physically fit starts out in the mind. You must first get mentally fit. It takes a determined and committed mental attitude to make it happen. But, the health benefits and enhancement of self-confidence are definitely worth the effort and discipline. 

Also, find a goal that you would really like to achieve. I suggest that you go shopping. Find some nice clothes that you would really like to be able to wear, but can't. Get motivated to fit comfortably into these clothes! Think how good you will feel, both physically and mentally, when you can. Don't say it can't be done. There is no "can't!" Make it a priority! Go for it! Your health and well-being will be the "Biggest Winners"!

Biggest Winner Bloggers Unite!

Today I made the decision to use the blog instead of the weekly e-newsletter for our Biggest Winner participants. I am excited about the possibilities! This will afford us so many more options than the newsletter format. I will be posting health and fitness tips... delicious, healthy recipes... encouragement... and who knows what else. We may even have a few good laughs along the way!

What I'm really excited about is the fact that this can be a more interactive way to communicate. You are welcome to just come to the blog to read, and put to use the new information you will find there each week. Actually, quite often things will be posted more often than weekly -- you might want to check every few days. 

But you don't have to just read.  You are invited to ask questions, offer encouragement of your own, share your struggles and successes, even your own healthy recipes. I think we're going to have fun with this, and it may serve to help keep us on track more effectively. I don't know about you, but I need all the help I can get. We can do this!

Me? Blogging?

A week ago I didn't even know what a blog was. No, I'm not kidding. I had heard the term, and knew it had something to do with communicating online. Then a friend's daughter sent me a message on Facebook (!) and invited me to visit her blog, thinking that I might enjoy it. And thank you, Tricia -- I do. Very much. You are a gifted writer, and your blog reveals your talent, as well as your sweet spirit.

This week we are starting the second annual "Biggest Winner" program at the Christian elementary school where I'm the Communications/Outreach Coordinator. It seems I am the Biggest Winner Coordinator as well. Having lost sixty pounds several years ago, friends and acquaintances tend to look to me for reinforcement and encouragement in their quest towards better health and fitness. Maybe it's because they know I struggle, just like they do. At least ten of those pounds I lost have found me again. Hence, I will be participating in the Biggest Winner. And I WILL lose that weight. The survival of my waistbands, buttons and zippers depend on it. 

I have fallen back into some bad habits and need to get back on track. I know my problem areas, and have chosen to ignore them. Especially over the holidays. I never met a carb I didn't like -- and they LOVE me. Especially the ones shaped like stars and bells with glittery sugar sprinkled on top. I honestly believe it is a kind of addiction with me. It's like I don't have an "off" switch once I get started. 

I know, I know. Don't deprive yourself -- just have a little bit. Well, it doesn't work that way for me. I know this. It's better -- for me, at least -- to just stay away from certain foods. Once they're out of my system I don't miss them. I actually prefer to eat good, whole foods. Unprocessed, for the most part. When I eat the "wrong" things for me, I feel sluggish. My stomach hurts. My joints aren't too thrilled about the whole thing, either. Arthritis, you know. I would never say I'm thankful for arthritis, but it does motivate me to keep the weight off. And yet, until they're out of my system, I crave those sugary, starchy, empty carbs. 

And so, I am starting this blog as a means of encouraging others. I would like it to be a place where I can pass information along about fitness and healthy eating. I will share recipes and tips to help you, if you're trying to turn over a healthier leaf. And I want you to feel free to ask questions -- vent, even. This blog may evolve into something more but, for now, the focus will be living a healthier life. Living life aware. Aware that there are consequences to the choices we make. For now, let's apply that to our physical selves. It will naturally extend into other areas, don't you think?